Original Items. One-of-a-Kind Group. This is an absolutely stunning group of soldier accouterments from the Revolutionary War Period. The most stunning pieces in the group are the original all-leather rifle bag & the powder horn with its original woven canvas strap. The grouping was found together in New York State, perfectly preserved with the spoon and bullet mold in the bag. This is a fantastic group!
This phenomenal grouping includes:
-Soldier’s Rifle bag constructed of leather with a small pocket riveted to the strap for the soldier’s patch knife. The crude nature of the rivets certainly dates this piece to the late 18th century. The flap opens but is very delicate. To have a piece this like still fully intact is a miracle in itself. Bag itself is 8 x 7½”, the leather is VERY WEAK so please exercise caution.
-The Soldier’s patch knife. A rifleman used this knife to cut cloth or leather patches that were wrapped around the rifle's lead shot. The patch sealed any open space between the inside of the rifle barrel and the round ball. This prevented the escape of gases once the gun was fired. This example has a wooden handle and is in fantastic shape, fitting perfectly into its slot on the bag.
-Revolutionary War Powder Horn with original period woven canvas strap. The strap has some fraying as is expected but is still strong. This would’ve been hand-woven and attached to the horn as shown. The small wooden cap is still retained. A phenomenal piece.
-Revolutionary War bullet mold, extremely crude manufacture, still functions. Great deal of surface rusting as shown. Large caliber.
-Phenomenal period Horn Spoon, showing heavy use during the period with some staining. This was used for years upon years. Measures roughly 7” long.
This is one of the most phenomenal soldier gear groupings we have ever offered, and will offer a scarce look into one of the most sought after era of American Military history. Each piece is handmade and has a fantastic patina and a ton of character. This group comes ready for further research and display!
A Patch Knife or Patch Cutter is a standard part of any rifleman's equipment. This knife was a smaller version of the rifleman's knife with a shorter three to four-inch blade. These knives were primarily used to cut patches, pieces of cloth or leather which were wrapped around the rifle ball to insure a tight fit against the rifling in the barrel of the weapon. Handles were made of a variety of material - often antler, wood, or cow horn.